South Side Soup ‘hoppers' fill food pantry's shelves

A record turnout of more than 1250 people came out for the 4th Annual South Side Mid-Winter Soup Contest presented by Iron & Glass Bank on Saturday, Feb. 16.

Those who came to the South Side to soup hop and shop enjoyed a beautiful winter day, perfect for soup tasting. The Brashear Association Food Pantry benefited from the day's proceeds, which exceeded $7,400 and 2000 canned goods.

"This year's event was hugely successful. It continues to draw more people each year to experience the unique blend of restaurants and one of a kind retailers that make South Side their home," said Rick Belloli, executive director of South Side Local Development Company. "This is a great partnership with The Brashear Association and we are only too happy to help them with the tough task of feeding more than 400 families each month."

And the winner is…The competition from the 23 participating restaurants was fierce. Soup hoppers voted on their favorites for the People's Choice Awards. Runner-up was awarded to Café Du Jour for its creation, Steve Stewttenberg. People's Choice Winner was 17th Street Café with Chef Pat Joyce's Bacon, Blue Cheese, Apple and Brandy soup.

An eight member judging panel selected Tom's Diner creation, Shrimp and Sausage Bisque as runner up for the Judges' Choice category. The Judges' Choice Winner was Folino's Risorante with its Chicken Florentine.